Dr Rebecca Cliffe has been awarded an honorary degree from Swansea University in recognition of her groundbreaking work in sloth conservation.
Dr Cliffe’s dedication and passion for wildlife have significantly contributed to the understanding and preservation of sloths, one of the world’s most enigmatic and endangered species.
Dr Cliffe first encountered sloths while studying for a bachelor’s degree in Zoology from the University of Manchester. Her passion for these unique animals led her to Costa Rica in 2009 for a 12-month research placement. There, she realised the lack of scientific knowledge about sloths and their conservation needs, prompting her to dedicate her career to these fascinating tree-dwelling mammals.
During her postgraduate studies, Dr Cliffe demonstrated remarkable initiative by raising $150,000 through crowdfunding to support her research. This effort allowed her to conduct the longest recorded study of wild sloth ecology and develop the first successful protocol for rehabilitating orphaned sloths into the wild. The campaign garnered global media attention, raising awareness and interest in sloth conservation worldwide.
Dr Cliffe’s commitment to her research took her deep into the Costa Rican rainforest, where she spent six years living alone in the jungles of Costa Rica, tracking wild sloths and collecting vital data. Her hard work culminated in a PhD in Bioscience from Swansea University in 2017. She has since published numerous scientific papers on sloth ecology, biology, genetics, and physiology, shedding light on the impacts of climate change and urbanisation on sloth populations.
Beyond research, Dr Cliffe founded the Sloth Conservation Foundation, which now employs ten staff members in one of Costa Rica’s poorest provinces. Her work with local communities, landowners, and businesses has fostered a collaborative approach to wildlife conservation. In 2020, she played a pivotal role in having the sloth recognised as an official national symbol of Costa Rica.
Dr Cliffe is also a celebrated author, with her best-selling book "Life in the Slow Lane" and the children’s book "The Adventures of Dr Sloth," further cementing her influence in wildlife conservation.
On receiving her honorary degree, Dr Cliffe said: “Twelve years ago, Swansea University took a chance on me by supporting my unconventional plan to do a PhD from the depths of the Costa Rican rainforest, where I could immerse myself in the world of sloths.
“Receiving this award is a profound honour and a testament to the incredible support and belief that the university has shown in my work. I am excited about the future and the possibilities for continued collaborations to inspire future scientists and advance wildlife conservation.”